What is CMT?

CMT, or Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, is a group of disorders that affect the peripheral nerves. It is a progressive disorder that affects the feet, lower legs and hands and can lead to muscle weakness and foot deformity. It is one of the most common inherited neurological disorders, affecting more than 125,000 people in the United States alone.

Symptoms of CMT

The most common symptom of CMT is slow but progressive weakness and wasting of the muscles in the legs and feet, starting with the feet and gradually progressing up to the legs. Other symptoms may include high-arched feet (pes cavus), decreased sensation in the feet and hands, difficulties with fine motor activities, foot deformities such as hammertoes, and scoliosis.

Treatment of CMT

The treatment of CMT largely depends on the specific form of the disease. While there is currently no known cure for CMT, there are many treatment options that can help to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include physical therapy, orthopedic braces, medications, and surgery. In addition, research is being conducted to identify new and more effective treatments for CMT.

CMT can be a difficult and challenging diagnosis, but there are many resources and treatments available to those affected. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of CMT, it is important to talk to your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.